Why are logistic directors making more environmentally friendly decisions?

Jul 6, 2023

Why are logistic directors making more environmentally friendly decisions? This important question is being asked through out the industry and beyond.

In recent years, there has been a growing trend of the haulage industry making more environmentally friendly decisions. This is due to several factors, including increasing pressure from customers, shareholders, and employees, as well as the growing awareness of the environmental impact of logistics.

What are the reasons for making environmentally aware decisions?

One of the main reasons for this trend is the increasing pressure from customers. Customers are becoming more aware of the environmental impact of their purchases, and they are looking to companies that are taking steps to reduce their environmental impact. As a result, 4PL and 3PL managers and directors are under increasing pressure to make their operations more environmentally friendly.

Another reason for this trend is the growing awareness of the environmental impact of logistics. The logistics industry is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, and it is responsible for a significant amount of waste. Having said this, the logistics industry contributes heavily to our economy and should be praised for its huge contribution to sustaining the economy during difficult times. 

While the industry holds its weight steadfastly from an economic standpoint, many trailblazers are trying to find sustainable and environmental adjustments to help reduce the impact on the UK environment. Wouldn’t it be idyllic to be economically sound as well as environmentally friendly? Let’s see if that can be achievable. 

Even though it’s easier said than done, we have seen some mavericks taking a stand in their field to promote the movement of environmental impact within logistics.

As awareness of environmental impact has grown, so too has the pressure on logistic directors to take action. 

What impact has the environment had on employees?

In addition to pressure from customers and shareholders, logistic directors are also facing pressure from employees. Employees are increasingly looking for jobs with companies that are making a positive impact on the environment which carefully knits into companies ‘wellbeing’ practices. 

With the driver shortage still causing issues in the industry, prospective employees are able to ‘have their pick’ of well-suited jobs and environmental impact and wellness certainly play a role in this decision-making. 

As a result, directors are formulating creative and innovative ways to reduce their impact and consciously develop logistical solutions. And we’re included in that journey.

We’re constantly looking inward at ourselves at X2. Being UK based and privately owned, we are consistently monitoring our impact on the environment. 

Explore our environmental policy to learn more.

The main reason logistic directors are going green

The environmental impact of logistics is significant, and companies need to take steps to reduce their impact. Upper-tier management is increasingly recognising this responsibility, and they are taking steps to make their operations more environmentally friendly.

​​Unsurprisingly, customers are more likely to value a green company. A study by Nielsen found that 66% of global consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products and services. Additionally, a study reported in the Guardian found that 87% of consumers say they are more likely to do business with a company that is committed to sustainability.

What should transport and logistics directors consider when choosing a company to work with?

Let’s take a look at what the logistics industry can do to make their operations more environmentally friendly. Some of these include:

Investing in more fuel-efficient transport: One of the most effective ways to reduce the environmental impact of logistics is to invest in more fuel-efficient transport. This can include lorries, vans and cars. Using fuel-efficient options available on the market can also save companies a significant amount of money on fuel costs.

Using renewable energy: Another way to reduce the environmental impact of logistics is to use renewable energy. This can include solar power, wind power, and hydropower. Renewable energy is becoming increasingly affordable, and it can help companies reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.

Improving fuel efficiency: Fuel efficiency can be improved by how drivers drive. This can include factors such as driving at a constant speed, avoiding unnecessary idling, and using cruise control. 

Reducing waste: Reducing the environmental impact of operations by reducing waste. This can include things like recycling, composting, and reducing packaging. 

Offsetting emissions: Emissions are a hot topic in logistics. Being selective with projects can reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This can include things like planting trees, investing in renewable energy or supporting energy efficiency projects. 

Choosing to work with an environmentally conscious company 

The environmental impact of logistics is significant, but there are a number of things that core industry professionals can do to reduce their impact. 

If you’d like to know more about how our team can make your company more green, get in touch with us at X2. Our UK-based team are here to advise you through the whole process and make your logistic solution feel simple.